Living in Pierce County

Pierce County may be one of the most geographically diverse counties in the nation, from the miles of marine shoreline along Puget Sound to the summit of Mount Rainier, one of the most glaciated mountain peaks in the continental U.S. With first-rate health care, school districts and transportation, and a unique combination of urban and rural areas, Pierce County is the perfect place to call home. Whether you prefer a small town, major metropolis, or something in between, Pierce County is home to numerous cities and towns offering an array of qualities. Urbanites are drawn to downtown Tacoma for its competitively priced living spaces with sweeping mountain, city and water views. Families gravitate toward Tacoma’s charming neighborhoods with big-city amenities. Pierce County communities are unique—enjoy rhubarb pie in Sumner, antiques in Puyallup, maritime in Gig Harbor, majestic gardens in Lakewood, history in Fife, or nature in the rural areas near Mount Rainier—it’s all here. LIVING IN PIERCE COUNTY BY KELLY LENIHAN

WEATHER The Pacific Northwest is known for its rain. But the temperate climate of Pierce County averages only 39.9 inches of rainfall a year (less than most cities on the East Coast).

TRANSPORTATION Travel by land, air and water with the Port of Tacoma, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and Sound Transit’s rail and bus system. The Pierce County Ferry, Amtrak and Pierce Transit are just a few more examples of the convenient transportation systems available.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Ready to go out and explore? Whether you’re interested in dining and nightlife, the performing arts, museums, shopping, farmers markets, hiking, golfing, and more—we’ve got you covered!

SCHOOLS Exceptional academic institutions and learning experiences can be found in Pierce County. Please refer to our Education section for more information and resources.

LIBRARIES Visit any of the eight Tacoma libraries or 19 Pierce County Library branches. Many services are available online: You can apply for a library card, request books and check the monthly calendar for events and classes.

PARKS, FACILITIES & TRAILS There is something for everyone when you explore over 4,200 acres at 50 park sites throughout Pierce County, including three recreation centers, a sports complex, ice rink, skateboard park, two boat launch sites, two golf courses, trail corridors, a disc golf course. If you don’t want to leave Fido home, visit any of the dog-friendly parks.

HEALTH CARE MultiCare Health System is a leading-edge, nonprofit, integrated health organization. It operates four hospitals and numerous clinics serving patients at 93 locations. Franciscan Health System is a comprehensive health care organization operating hospitals, same-day surgery centers, occupational health services, physical therapy clinics and centers for advanced medicine featuring state-of-the-art technology.

MILITARY Joint Base Lewis-McChord, one of 12 joint bases worldwide, is an amalgamation of the Army post Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base. JBLM has more than 45,000 soldiers and civilian workers. The joint base supports over 120,000 military retirees and more than 29,000 family members living both on and off post. Adjacent to JBLM, Camp Murray is home to the Washington National Guard and the Washington Air National Guard. The two armories at Camp Murray can be used for graduations, receptions, tournaments, youth events, potlucks, seminars and charity events.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K